Willis was of opinion that an "old man must die some day, and somehow,--as good one way as another;" and all his concern was to run about after his maid, seeing that she did not tire herself, and obeying all her orders with sailor-like precision and cleverness.
And Tom?
He just thought nothing about death and danger at-all.

Always smiling, always cheerful, always busy, yet never in a hurry, he went up and down, seemingly ubiquitous.

Sleep he got when he could, and food as often as he could; into the sea he leapt, morning and night, and came out fresher every time; the only person in the town who seemed to grow healthier, and actually happier, as the work went on.
"You really must be careful of yourself," said Campbell, at last.

"You carry no charmed life." "My dear sir, I am the most cautious and selfish man in the town.

I am living by rule; I have got--and what greater pleasure ?--a good stand-up fight with an old enemy; and be sure I shall keep myself in condition for it.